Single-breasted and double-breasted suits for men are the two primary men’s suits available in the market. The words “double-breasted” and “single-breasted” are used for the button arrangements on the coat or jacket of the men’s suit. Due to the continuous shift in men’s fashion, both types of suits remain trendy at different times.
While double-breasted suits provide you with an incredibly powerful look, single-breasted suits have modern connotations. Both these suits are worn at different occasions and events. Due to this, sometimes it gets difficult to decide which will be the best suit for you. To clear up your confusion, we have outlined the primary differences between the two to help you know which will fit your style best.
What Are Double-Breasted Suits For Men?
Double-breasted suits have two symmetrical columns of buttons with wider, overlapping front flaps. The first button column is functional to close the waistcoat or jacket, while the second column is decorative. These suits provide a vintage look and have been in style for many decades.
Double breasted suits for men are best suited for men with broader shoulders and tall heights. These vintage-vibe suits usually have 4 to 6 buttons and a slimmer fit. The trousers of these suits also have a slim profile that gives the person a formal yet fashionable look. Men can not wear these types of suits on any random occasion as they have a more formal look than other outfits.
What Are Single Breasted Suits?
A Single-breasted suit has a narrow overlap of fabric and a single column of buttons. These are standard suits that are worn at a wedding, party, family event, office meeting, etc. These suits or waistcoats have a modern vibe and can be worn at casual occasions like family parties.
Single-breasted suits attained popularity after World War 2 and gradually became fashionable for every occasion. These suits typically have two to four buttons, and on formal occasions, one button is always meant to be closed to provide a proper look. Single-breasted suits emphasize the entire body, not just the upper body part.
Single Breasted Suits Vs. Double Breasted Suits
The old debate about which one is better has been raging for decades, but there has never been a definite answer. The choice of wearing a suit particularly depends on the person’s choice and the type of occasion they are going to. However, men can also opt for leisure suits for a casual look at any event.
The underlying points will help you understand the difference between single and double-breasted suits for men, and you will know which is the appropriate apparel for your next event.
1. Buttons
The most noticeable difference between a single-breasted coat and a double-breasted coat is the buttons. Double-breasted suits have two or three rows of buttons, some of which are functional and others ornamental. These button columns give this type of suit an aesthetic appeal. The overall appearance of buttons over the coat looks like a rectangle or a square.
On the other hand, single-breasted suits only have one column of buttons and one set of button holes. Most of the buttons in this type of coat are functional.
2. Lapels
The lapel is one of the front parts of a coat. It is the folded flap of cloth in the front of a jacket or a coat. There are three types of lapels: notch lapels, peak lapels, and shawl lapels. A single-breasted coat or suit typically has a notch lapel, which forms a V-shaped cut when it meets the collar.
However, double-breasted suits commonly have a peak lapel with sharp unturned edges ending in a single point. There is a small part of the lapel that is extended towards the shoulders to form an angle point.
3. Fit
However, both suits are good for every man. Double-breasted suits look best on taller males. These suits focus more on the upper part of the body and give you a strong and bold look at any event. Double-breasted coats give you a slimmer look as the garment is cut as close to the body as possible.
Meanwhile, single-breasted coats are a bit looser and have a more comfortable fit than double-breasted suits for men. These suits focus on the entire body and are best suited for everyone. You can wear this fit at a casual event or a formal meeting to have a modern and sleek fit.
4. Flaps
In a single-breasted suit, the flaps meet cross each other by just an inch or two from the waist to the upper chest. When you fasten the button, the column button is in the central position. While the double-breasted suits get their whole look from the widened flaps as they are more pronounced. The crossover of the two flaps is about six to eight inches, which means the left flap extends its way over the right one, making it almost invisible to the public.
Summing It Up
There is not much difference between the two suits, but they both give you a different appearance and style. You can choose different patterns, colors, and fabrics in single or double-breasted suits. They both look amazing at any formal event. However, a double-breasted suit can give you a more powerful appearance. If you are looking for a more casual fit for an event, you can also explore other options like leisure suits or denim suits.
